Mayor Announces New Volunteer of the Month Program

February Volunteer of the Month: Haley Gibson

February 7, 2014

Albuquerque- Today Mayor Richard J. Berry announced changes to the city’s volunteer programs, including a new name for the city’s volunteerism office which will now be known as ABQ Volunteers. Additionally, he announced a new award presented by the city to individuals who volunteer for causes that make the City of Albuquerque a better place to live. Selections are made based off submissions received through the city website at volunteer.cabq.gov.

The first every city volunteer of the month is eleven year old Haley Gibson. Haley saw a problem in her community and took the initiative to fix it.

Haley has always taken an interest in keeping her community clean, and takes it to heart when she notices people who litter or show a lack of respect for local parks and playgrounds. Recently Haley was at a local park and noticed a slide that was covered in graffiti and damaged by vandals. She was resolved to fix the problem and set out to do just that.

Haley started sending emails to her contacts to enlist the help of others and identify resources to organize a park wide clean up. She made fliers and passed them out in the neighborhood and at her school. With the support of her family and friends, she set out to clean up the park so that children could have a fun and safe place to play. Haley indicates that she knew her hard work was worthwhile when shortly after completing the project, she spotted two little girls playing on the playground equipment and once again enjoying the park.

Haley Gibson’s generous and caring nature has improved the experience of residents and visitors to our local parks. Spearheading this project from start to finish, she demonstrated her commitment and dedication to her neighborhood and community. Haley exemplifies how serving others is the greatest reward of all.